Exemption of mechanics.
--For general information and instruction we copy the following order, showing the rule and practice in Alabama on some important matters:
Circular order.
This privilege is allowed those useful members of society for the public good, not for the benefit of the mechanics themselves. They derive great individual benefit from it, but the privilege is allowed for the public good alone. These exemptions are conditional. If the privilege is abused the exemption is forfeited. The law allows those exempted a very liberal profit, 75 per cent. on the cost of production. The exorbitant rates now demanded for coarse, rough shoes ($35) and for boots (from $100 to $150) illustrates the extent of this abuse.
The State Commissioners, under a law of Congress, have fixed full prices for all articles entering into the wants of the army. The wants of the country are the same. The rates fixed by these Commissioners for hides, leather, shoes, etc., are adopted as the basis of prices to be allowed, and are deemed fair for individuals. If the Government allows 10 cents or 100 cents per pound for hides, the tanner will be allowed that and his profits for tanning. If the Government allows $5 or $10 per pound for leather, that must be the basis allowed for the shoemaker, upon which he is to calculate his profit as a manufacturer. If charges exceed the rates fixed by Government, this will be regarded as evidence of the abuse of the privilege of exemption. Where exemption has been granted, the right to revoke the exemption is clear. If the privilege is abused, upon proof being made and brought before proper enrolling officers or commanders of rendezvous or outpost, they will forward the proofs, with their opinion endorsed thereon, through the Brigadier General superintending this Bureau.
Some manufacturers refuse to sell their goods for money, and demand of the families of soldiers that they shall pay for their goods with provisions. This will be regarded as a violation of the privilege of exemption, it being a disingenuous shift to obtain exorbitant rates and larger profits than the law allows. They must sell their goods for money. They must amoney price, and if they will not sell for this must cease to manufacture. Confederate money is the currency of the country, and the refusal of it will be treated as a forfeiture of exemption. If citizens willingly barter supplies it is not objected to.
The attention of all officers of the Bureau is called to this order. They will likewise receive proofs and forward the same in all other cases where citizens charge a forfeiture of exemption.
